Parolees

/ˌpærəˈliːz/ noun

Definition

Plural of 'parolee', a person who has been released from prison but must follow certain rules and conditions for a set period.

Etymology

From 'parole', derived from Old French 'parole' meaning 'word' or 'speech' (giving one's word of honor). The criminal justice meaning developed in 19th century America.

Kelly Says

Parole literally means giving your 'word' or 'word of honor'—it's based on the idea that someone promises to behave, though modern parole also involves GPS tracking and drug tests rather than just trust.

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